The Impact of Foliar Application of Iron and Manganese on Growth Performance and Quality Traits of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

A field experiment was conducted during the winter season of 2024–2025 at the Field Crops Research Station (FCRS), Field Crops Department, College of Agriculture, Tikrit University, to estimate the effect of foliar application of manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) on growth and quality traits of barley, variety Ibaa 99. The study included four concentrations of Mn (0, 1000, 2000, and 3000 ppm) and four concentrations of Fe (0, 1000, 2000, and 3000 ppm). Foliar sprays were applied in two stages: the tillering stage and the booting stage. The experiment was arranged in a factorial split-plot design based on a Randomized Complete Block design (RCBD) with three replications. Five growth and quality traits were measured. The results exhibited that the Mn and Fe concentrations, as well as their interaction, were significant for all studied traits. The highest concentration of Mn (3000 ppm) led to significant increases in chlorophyll content, leaf area, and plant height, in addition to improving grain Mn content. Similarly, the highest Fe concentration (3000 ppm) significantly enhanced chlorophyll content, leaf area, plant height, and grain Fe content. Overall, foliar feeding with Mn and Fe at higher concentrations improved both growth performance and grain quality in barley.